Astronomers have uncovered new insights into the formation of heavy elements in the universe, proposing that starquakes on magnetars—neutron stars with extremely strong magnetic fields—may contribute to the creation of elements like gold. The research highlights the intense energy released during these stellar tremors, known as starquakes, which occur when the magnetar’s crust cracks under magnetic stress.
The study, spearheaded by a team of astrophysicists, suggests that the energy unleashed during these events may trigger nuclear reactions capable of forging heavy elements. Traditionally, such processes were thought to occur primarily during supernova explosions or neutron star mergers. However, this new theory introduces an alternative mechanism for synthesizing elements that are rare on Earth but found in trace amounts across the cosmos.
“Magnetars are among the most powerful objects in the universe,” one of the researchers explained. “Our findings indicate that their violent activity could play a significant role in the cosmic production of elements heavier than iron.”
This discovery may reshape understanding of nucleosynthesis—the cosmic formation of new atomic nuclei—and could provide further clues about the abundance and distribution of valuable elements like gold in the universe.
Additional observations and modeling will be needed to confirm the full extent of magnetar-related heavy element production. Nonetheless, the study opens a promising new avenue in astrophysics research and deepens our understanding of how the universe builds its most complex materials.
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